Endodontics [Pronounced en-doh-don-tiks]

The Root Canal” - Definition and some Trivia

Endodontics - commonly known as a root canal - comes from the Greek words eno meaning "within" an odous meaning "tooth." It’s a procedure that treats an infection inside the tooth. It’s caused from bacteria entering your tooth (see diagram), through a deep cavity, a cracked filling or an injury to the face. The tooth nerve and pulp, (the soft area of the tooth) will eventually become irritated, inflamed, and infected. The procedure is relatively simple and rarely painful (as its reputation would have you believe). It can save your natural tooth and avoid the need of dental implants or bridges. It involves three main steps:
Treating the infection – typically with antibiotics
Cleaning the area inside the tooth to protect it from subsequent infection
Putting crown over the tooth

Having a root canal done when you need one is important. By keeping your natural tooth, you’ll prevent your other teeth from shifting an losing their alignment, becoming misaligned and/or causing potential jaw problems.